Tracking at 16 bit vs. 24 bit

  • Thread starter Thread starter Alanfc
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Alanfc

Alanfc

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I have recently had a breakdown in my system and have had to seek more efficient ways of doing things. Now that its passed, I want to change to 16-bit/44.1k recording instead of 24/44.1 recording like I was doing before. Not only for effciency and system stability but for Simplicity. I only have guitars, vocals, and drums. No MIDI, no complex instrumentation.

Because this whole idea of Dithering seems too full of pitfalls for my taste. If I record hot enough to get most or all of my 16-bits do I need to mess with 24-bit?

The main question is , when I walk into a Mastering facility with a mixed final product, what will the Mastering Engineer have an easier time doing hi-quality work from?:

A) a 24-bit product from me (dithered on the facility's gear)
or
B) a 16- bit product from me that will need no dithering
or
C) no difference, if the tracking and mixing are "good"

This is vital. If the difference is major, I'll ditch the 16-bit idea.

Can anyone tell me if this would be a decent Poll to post on the Mixing-Mastering board?? I may re-word it (any suggestions?)

thanks alot
 
I think 24bit is definately worth it. Whether it makes a big difference in your recordings depends on a lot of factors. If you don't hear a difference then don't bother.
 
Thanks Tex- so basically the Mastering engineer won't have an issue with Bits, if the product on its own is decent to work with?

So I assume the Engineer is there for the complete final product and won't be thinking about Bits?

Its like, close your eyes and listen - and take it from there?

(I hope so)

thanks
 
The short answer - any Mastering guy will expect a 24 bit file, and will be able to do much more with one, than a 16 bit file.

Slackmaster has posted some excellant technical explainations as to exactly why this is, try doing a search.
 
Alanfc said:
Thanks Tex- so basically the Mastering engineer won't have an issue with Bits, if the product on its own is decent to work with?
Click to expand...

As long as the check clears you can probably get away with a casette tape that your dog pissed on. :D
 
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